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Pharma Technology Inc. (PTI), a specialty manufacturer of tablet dedusters and capsule polishers combined with metal detectors and loading systems for pharmaceutical solid dose production, has retained the services of Chris Hofman as its support specialist in North America. Hofman has worked for the pharmaceutical industry in a variety of roles, including R&D and manufacturing positions at a major generics company, as well as field service specialist roles at leading manufacturing equipment specialists.

The Belgium-based company recently opened a U.S. headquarters in New Jersey to provide it with a direct presence in North America, from which it can service all new and existing customers in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico with spare parts and equipment maintenance programs. It also will serve as the point of purchase for the FlexiTab single station R&D tablet press from Germany-based manufacturer Roeltgen. Pharma Technology Inc. is the exclusive FlexiTab distributor for North America and the sole approved service partner for all existing and new FlexiTab presses.

Hofman’s responsibilities reflect the expanded capabilities of Pharma Technology Inc. in North America. He oversees and executes installation, start-up, training, calibration validation for PTI’s tablet presses, dedusters, and metal detection systems, as well as handles servicing and troubleshooting. Part of this role is consultative: Hofman will advise PTI’s new and existing customers on potential improvements in their pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, including formulation, tableting, coating, granulation, and fluid bed technologies.

Hofman brings 20 years of experience to Pharma Technology Inc. Most recently, he spent four years as a service engineer with OYSTAR North America. Prior to that, he served as engineering consultant for Massachusetts-based Sage Engineering. Earlier in his career, Hofman held process and production positions with Apotex Pharmaceuticals and TorPharm, both based in Canada. At Apotex, he helped develop the company from infancy into one with more than 1000 employees during his decade-long tenure.

“Bringing a specialist with Chris’ credentials and experience onto our U.S. team is the next step in cementing Pharma Technology Inc.’s footprint in North America,” said Nic Michel, general manager, North America for Pharma Technology Inc. “Chris will be the focal point of a service team that provides North American pharmaceutical companies with efficient, expert service for our wide range of dedusters, tablet presses, and ancillary equipment.”